Census calls back iPhone plans

Jan. 6, 2014 - 06:00AM
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A customer looks at an Apple iPhone at one of the company's stores in Paris. (Patrick Kovarik / Getty Images)

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The Census Bureau’s wish to replace its BlackBerrys with iPhones within the next six months suffered a setback Monday.

The agency canceled a solicitation to purchase 1,200 iPhones because of a lack of competition, according to the agency.

The agency originally posted a solicitation Dec. 17 for 1,200 white iPhone 5Cs as part of its plan to phase out its existing use of Blackberrys within its headquarters staff. The Census Bureau did not receive enough responses by its Jan. 6 deadline to continue with the procurement.

“The Bureau is now exploring other procurement options to ensure we achieve the best value for the taxpayer funds that will be spent, and the most efficient and effective use of the Bureau's appropriated funds. ,” according to Census spokesman Michael Cook.

The agency is still in the planning phases of a separate acquisition effort to test a "bring your own device" program. The current effort to purchase iPhones will provide the agency with lessons and feedback for the later acquisition, according to Cook.